| Tom,
Truly the end of an era. Cleverness, wit, talent... all without the cynicism that accompanies the same qualities in today's Lenos, Lettermans, O'Briens, and Stewarts to name a few.
Today's generation will never know how funny this guy really was because the "Greatest Hit's" DVDs don't tell the story that was told night after night by this fellow. His relationship and clear respect for what Doc did on the show was exemplary. For as much ribbing as he gave Doc you could see the admiration he had for his musicianship, a talent that was never lost on Johnny.
I didn't know he was sick. Doc would talk about him a little when I'd ask him about the reclusive Carson. I had no idea.
Ah, crap, Johnny... we're going to miss you. Thanks for being there through all the amazing stuff happening in the country during the time you held forth on the late night airwaves. You always found something to crack us up about even when we hurt the most. I often wonder what your take on the 9/11 disasters would have been; how you would have handled it. Your last show was TV history and you said goodbye with the touch of class that was you and just you.
The mold is broken, Johnny, and likely to remain so. Know this: the next week or so will be taken up with middle-aged guys talking about their favorite bits. Such will be your deserved legacy... that when we think of you..
...we'll remember and smile.
ML |